Eco-Conscious Travel Collection

Locals Love - Berkeley & Oakland, CA with Tara Esperanza

Day Trippin' in the East Bay

Berkeley and Oakland are two of the greatest cities in the San Francisco Bay Area, hands down. So what would an ideal day look like? Tara's Organic Ice Cream owner and artist Tara Esperanza recommends a few artistic/eco places that we think sound pretty darn awesome.

1. Treat - Ice Cream & Pottery

First things first. Tara's Organic Ice Cream because if you're in the neighborhood, trust us, you don't want to miss out. Sustainability and artistry are at the heart of her ice creamery. Peek at the TOIC spotlight page for more info. She has your favorite classic flavors along with exotic, epicurean concoctions like Golden Goddess (fresh ginger, turmeric and cumin), Andes Delight Sorbet (coconut, superfood Maca root and cinnamon), and black sesame. Pile your scoops into an organic, freshly handmade waffle cone and you'll be in heaven.

Your next stop is actually right inside Tara's Organic Ice Cream so you don't have to go far! She explains, "In my Berkeley shop we have a permanent display and ceramics for sale by Kristen Gentilucci of Stubborn Dog Pottery. Kristen manages the space and is constantly replenishing what sells. They are all one of a kind! All the spoon handles that she creates are of driftwood that she collects in nature... <3 her!"

Kristen speaks about her craft and her passion for nature-inspired pottery: "Pottery is my craft; a hobby that consumes every inch of cabinet space. Functionality is my model; minimalist is my style, and the great outdoors is my inspiration. I'm in love with the natural clay body surface and organic form, but it is sparks of color that drive my soul towards happiness. My spoons handles are crafted from wood sticks found in the high sierras and local beaches." We're absolutely in love with her work, you can see from her photos just how beautiful her creations are!

2. Shopping - Hatch

After your heavenly treat, how about a bit of shopping? Hatch is a lovely neighborhood shop featuring eco-friendly, sustainable and socially responsible housewares and gifts. Proprietors Susan and Ashesh have curated this charming store with a unique and modern selection of beautifully designed items for the whole family. At Hatch, "every product tells a story" so you can feel virtuous with your purchases knowing that you are doing good not only for yourself, but for others! With a location in Berkeley on College Avenue and in the Montclair district of Oakland, you can take your pick.

3. Art - Athen B. Gallery

"I LOVE THIS GALLERY" said Tara when speaking about the Athen B Gallery. "I actually went to the Jet Martinez opening last Saturday, 'Mayflowers.' I seriously can't wait to get back there without the crowd to just "be" with the paintings. I was so moved by them and so were many other people because it was practically sold out.

She continued, "This gallery works with urban artists and helps in the production/facilitation of many of the murals around Oakland, which I think is amazing! Street art and gallery art are often two very different platforms. They however bridge the two and hold interior space for the otherwise ignored artists that get overlooked or are undervalued."

The Mayflowers exhibit featuring the works of Jet Martinez will be showing through June 2nd, Tuesday-Friday 12:00PM-6:00PM and Saturday 11:00AM-5:00PM. Scroll through the photos for a preview of his stunning works of art.

Athen B Gallery - Mayflowers, Jet Martinez

4. Dry Cleaning - Eco Dry Cleaner

Because you never know, we have dry cleaning. A bit random but nevertheless important... If you're a local in need of a green tailor and/or dry cleaner (or just passing through with dry cleaning/alteration needs), Tara recommends her "favorite lil' green dry cleaner" Eco Dry Cleaner and Alterations. They're located in the Rockridge area of North Oakland at 6025 College Avenue and you can reach much loved owner Ouyna at 510.655.1542.

5. Dinner - Summer Kitchen + bakeshop

Time to eat! You've worked up an appetite after a day out and about, and we've got you covered. Look no further than our Kynder Collective member Summer Kitchen + Bakeshop. Proprietors Paul and Charlene place community, local food purveyors, and slow cooking at the heart of their establishment. They believe "As chefs, owners, and parents we have a strong commitment to creating an environmentally responsible business" and they have truly created a remarkable cafe in the Berkeley community.

Just a few suggestions to whet your appetite:

Organic Beech Mushroom, Leek, Truffle Tartufata and Burrata pizza

Mindful Meats West Marin County Organic Grass-Fed Beef Burger with Blue Cheese, Caramelized Onions, House Made Pickles and Wild Arugula